Carlos considered it. He didn't want to be tortured, of course, but an escape would be more interesting to watchers if the stakes were higher. However, he didn't want it to leave him at a disadvantage for the rest of the arena. He folded his arms and rubbed his chin, the seriousness juxtaposing humorously with his upside-down status.

"Hmm," he said, thoughtful. "No, it's not out of the question. I'll let you do it," said Carlos decisively, "but only if it doesn't leave injuries that will give me trouble later in the Arena."

It was a win-win situation: either he gave the Capitol a good show, or got out of this relatively pain-free. Either alternative was fine with Carlos.